It was a toasty weekend at Chaska’s Lion’s Park, but thousands of enthusiastic attendees braved the summer heat to enjoy the 49th annual edition of River City Days.
“This year’s Chaska River City Days was an incredible success,” reports Marissa Held-Nordling, River City Days executive director. “The energy in the park was vibrant all weekend long, and we were thrilled to see so many families, neighbors and visitors come together to celebrate our community. From start to finish, there was a strong sense of connection and fun.”
While there was no official headcount available from the weekend of festivities, Held-Nordling said attendance was definitely higher than last year. Numbers were particularly strong on Friday evening and all of Saturday.
“The park was packed for key events like free balloon twisting, princess story times, kids’ concerts, and Kids Zone activities,” she said.
This year’s River City Days included an expanded Kids Zone, with six bounce houses, llamas, a petting zoo, a magic show and more. In addition, there was live music under the big top tent every night. Other popular offerings were Water Wars with the Chaska Fire Department, bingo and a pancake breakfast hosted by Cub Scout Pack 301.
“The medallion hunt also continues to be a community favorite,” Held-Nordling added.
The heat did pose a bit of a problem on Sunday morning, as the crowds dwindled.
“Out of caution for vendors, who had already been on-site for multiple days, we gave them the option to pack up early,” Held-Nordling said. “Safety is always our top priority, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding.”
Feedback following this year’s community celebration, however, has been “overwhelmingly positive,” Held-Nordling reported.
“Attendees appreciated the variety of free and low-cost family activities, and sponsors loved the exposure and sense of community engagement,” she said. “We’re incredibly grateful for the many volunteers, businesses and city departments that made this possible. As a volunteer-led nonprofit, it truly takes a village to make this event happen. Chaska really showed up.”
Held-Nordling said organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s big 50th anniversary of River City Days.
“We have plans to add more music stages, bring in larger bands, introduce teen-focused activities, and expand our kids’ events,” she said. Watch for details early next year at chaskarivercitydays.org.
